Jewel Ray Ewert was born to Willie W. and Nettie Mae (Alley) Hilderbrand on October 13, 1937, in Virgina. She died on August 23, 2026, at the age of 88. She grew up and attended school mostly in the Portsmouth, Virgina area. She started her career in retail at the age of 17 as a sales associate in the candy and roasted nut department in the Woolworth department store. Jewel met the love of her life, Rueben Albert Ewert one Sunday night after he had followed her to church and introduced himself to her. She always claimed it was love at first sight!

Jewel married Rueben on January 17, 1960. They were married for 65 years and had two children. The two of them had many adventures traveling and as entrepreneurs in their work life, taking advantage of many opportunities in several states before settling in Colorado.

Jewel and her family lived in several states before coming to Colorado. When they came they first lived in Georgetown, Colorado and moved to Lakewood, Colorado where she was an Avon Lady, a homemaker, took care of her two children and worked as an assistant teacher. In 1975 she moved to Brush, Colorado where she and her husband owned and operated the Big T/Tastee Freeze Restaurant. From there she owned and managed the J & R Ewert’s Men’s & Women’s clothing store that featured a bridal shop.

In 1983 she and her husband purchased the Brush Roller Rink which they managed for 35 years before selling to retire in 2018. During their tenure owning the roller rink she was known to many as “MOM” and she wore that title with pride. She always did her best to be a part of the village to provide a safe space for the youth of Morgan County.

Jewel is survived by her Daughters Cherie Plank and Sandra (Jerry) Bills. Grandkids Austin (Amanda) Grippin; Alexis (Jessica) Bills-Bustillos and Cali Bills. Great Granddaughters, Kai and Swin Bills-Bustillos and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Rueben A. Ewert, her parents W.W. and Nettie Hilderbrand, parents -in-law Rev. Albert and Rosie Ewert, sisters Betty Hester, Lois McDowell, Shriley Hargrave, and Willie Mae Griffin.

Per her wishes, cremation will take place and there will be no viewing or service.